Based on true events, a librarian from the United States travels to the arid, desert like area of Kenya to bring books to nomadic, tribal people. No roads, of course, leads to traveling to the settlements by camel back. Most of the villagers have never held a book in their hands. The introduction of and exposure to western books and ideas does not necessarily sit well with some tribal elders. The conflict between modern ways, i.e. the books, versus ancient, tribal beliefs starts a chain of events that ends unexpectedly. Along the way, the vibrant characters with their hopes,loves and fears bring a richness to the story that is memorable.

This one by British author Trollope, begins as Eleanor, an independent retired single career woman, invites two isolated young single mothers to a Friday evening at her house out of compassion and a desire to get them talking to each other. The group expands to include the single businesswoman next door, her female business partner, who is in a troubled marriage with an artist, and the wild punked-out younger sister of one of the women; all in transition, they struggle with change and life choices.

A name left in a book leads to correspondence and romance between London author Juliet Ashton and Guernsey farmer Dawsey Adams. Guersney residents formed the Literary Society as an alibi for their meetings during the WW II German occupation. Endearing characters add warmth to the story and place.

This book follows a group of people traveling the world for a reality television show similar to the Amazing Race. Chosen by the producers for the conflicts they might bring, the teams include a mother and her teenage daughter trying to move past a difficult time, two former child stars hoping to restart their careers, a pair of young millionaire inventors, reunited childhood sweethearts, and a newlywed couple who were each formerly gay and have now embraced the church and a traditional marriage. Each person has a secret. As the teams collect odd items in a global scavenger hunt, the secrets become harder to keep.